Hunt entered the United States Military Academy (USMA), and graduated number twenty-nine of fifty-four in class of 1894.

He was awarded the Army Distinguished Service Medal along with the Silver Star for his role during the battles at Saint-Mihiel and the Meuse-Argonne.

[3] Hunt was a member of the West Point Alumni Association and an editor of the Photographic History of the Civil War.

[5] The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General Ora Elmer Hunt, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I.

As Commander of the 6th Infantry Brigade, 3d Division, during the greater part of its active operations, General Hunt achieved notable success, demonstrating high qualities of leadership.

Through his exceptional tactical ability his brigade was enabled to overcome desperate hostile resistance during its participation in the Meuse-Argonne offensive.

[6] By direction of the President, under the provisions of the act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, Brigadier General Ora Elmer Hunt, United States Army, is cited by the Commanding General, American Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action and a silver star may be placed upon the ribbon of the Victory Medals awarded him.